Open-door extended endoscopic transorbital technique to the paramedian anterior and middle cranial fossae: technical notes, anatomomorphometric quantitative analysis, and illustrative case.

OBJECTIVE: The superior eyelid endoscopic transorbital approach (SETOA) provides a direct and short minimally invasive route to the anterior and middle skull base. Nevertheless, it uses a narrow corridor that limits its angles of attack. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of an "extended" conservative variant of the "standard" endoscopic transorbital approach-termed "open-door"-to enhance the exposure of lesions affecting the paramedian aspect of the anterior and middle cranial fossae. METHODS: First, the authors described the technical nuances of the open-door extended transorbital approach (ODETA). Next, they documented its morphometric advantages over standard SETOA. Finally, they provided a clinical-anatomical application to demonstrate enhanced exposure and better angles of attack to treat lesions occupying the paramedian anterior and middle cranial fossae. Five adult cadaveric specimens (10 sides) initially underwent standard SETOA and then extended open-door SETOA (ODETA to the paramedian anterior and middle fossae). The adjunct of hinge-orbitotomy, through three surgical steps and straddling the frontozygomatic suture, converted conventional SETOA to its extended open-door variant. CT scans were performed before dissection and uploaded to the neuronavigation system for quantitative analysis. The angles of attack on the axial plane that addressed four key landmarks, namely the tip of the anterior clinoid process (ACP), foramen rotundum (FR), foramen ovale (FO), and trigeminal impression (TI), were calculated for both operative techniques and compared. RESULTS: Hinge-orbitotomy of the extended open-door SETOA resulted in several surgical, functional, and esthetic advantages: it provided wider axial angles of attack for each of the target points, with a gain angle of 26.68° ± 1.31° for addressing the ACP (p < 0.001), 29.50° ± 2.46° for addressing the FR (p < 0.001), 19.86° ± 1.98° for addressing the FO (p < 0.001), and 17.44° ± 2.21° for addressing the lateral aspect of the TI (p < 0.001), while hiding the skin scar, avoiding temporalis muscle dissection, preserving flap vascularization, and decreasing the rate of bone infection and degree of orbital content retraction. CONCLUSIONS: The extended open-door technique may be specifically suited for selected patients affected by paramedian anterior and middle fossae lesions, with prevalent anteromedial extension toward the anterior clinoid, the foremost compartment of the cavernous sinus and FR and not completely controlled with the pure endoscopic transorbital approach.

360° around the orbit: key surgical anatomy of the microsurgical and endoscopic cranio-orbital and orbitocranial approaches.

OBJECTIVE: Several pathologies either invade or arise within the orbit. These include meningiomas, schwannomas, and cavernous hemangiomas among others. Although several studies describing various approaches to the orbit are available, no study describes all cranio-orbital and orbitocranial approaches with clear, surgically oriented anatomical descriptions. As such, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive guide to the microsurgical and endoscopic approaches to and through the orbit. METHODS: Six formalin-fixed, latex-injected cadaveric head specimens were dissected in the surgical anatomy laboratory at the authors' institution. In each specimen, the following approaches were modularly performed: endoscopic transorbital approaches (ETOAs), including a lateral transorbital approach and a superior eyelid crease approach; endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEAs), including those to the medial orbit and optic canal; and transcranial approaches, including a supraorbital approach, a fronto-orbital approach, and a 3-piece orbito-zygomatic approach. Each pertinent step was 3D photograph-documented with macroscopic and endoscopic techniques as previously described. RESULTS: Endoscopic endonasal approaches to the orbit afforded excellent access to the medial orbit and medial optic canal. Regarding ETOAs, the lateral transorbital approach afforded excellent access to the floor of the middle fossa and, once the lateral orbital rim was removed, the cavernous sinus could be dissected and the petrous apex drilled. The superior eyelid approach provides excellent access to the anterior cranial fossa just superior to the orbit, as well as the dura of the lesser wing of the sphenoid. Craniotomy-based approaches provided excellent access to the anterior and middle cranial fossa and the cavernous sinus, except the supraorbital approach had limited access to the middle fossa. CONCLUSIONS: This study outlines the essential surgical steps for major cranio-orbital and orbitocranial approaches. Endoscopic endonasal approaches offer direct medial access, potentially providing bilateral exposure to optic canals. ETOAs serve as both orbital access and as a corridor to surrounding regions. Cranio-orbital approaches follow a lateral-to-medial, superior-to-inferior trajectory, progressively allowing removal of protective bony structures for proportional orbit access.

How I do it: surgical ligation of posteromedial tentorial dural arteriovenous fistulas.

BACKGROUND: Tentorial dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) are categorized based on venous drainage and location. Although their angioarchitecture may initially appear intimidating, once "decodified," treatment is straightforward. Posteromedial tentorial dAVFs have an arterialized draining vein that emanates from the inferior tentorium along the posterior third of the straight sinus, just slightly off the midline. METHOD: With the aid of anatomical dissections, intraoperative photos, and operative videos, we outline the key steps for surgical treatment of posteromedial tentorial dAVFs. CONCLUSION: Posteromedial tentorial dAVFs constitute a precise and well-defined subtype of tentorial dAVF for which surgical ligation has an important role.

Neuroanatomical photogrammetric models using smartphones: a comparison of apps.

OBJECTIVES: A deep knowledge of the surgical anatomy of the target area is mandatory for a successful operative procedure. For this purpose, over the years, many teaching and learning methods have been described, from the most ancient cadaveric dissection to the most recent virtual reality, each with their respective pros and cons. Photogrammetry, an emergent technique, allows for the creation of three-dimensional (3D) models and reconstructions. Thanks to the spreading of photogrammetry nowadays it is possible to generate these models using professional software or even smartphone apps. This study aims to compare the neuroanatomical photogrammetric models generated by the two most utilized smartphone applications in this domain, Metascan and 3D-Scanner, through quantitative analysis. METHODS: Two human head specimens (four sides) were examined. Anatomical dissection was segmented into five stages to systematically expose well-defined structures. After each stage, a photogrammetric model was generated using two prominent smartphone applications. These models were then subjected to both quantitative and qualitative analysis, with a specific focus on comparing the mesh density as a measure of model resolution and accuracy. Appropriate consent was obtained for the publication of the cadaver's image. RESULTS: The quantitative analysis revealed that the models generated by Metascan app consistently demonstrated superior mesh density compared to those from 3D-Scanner, indicating a higher level of detail and potential for precise anatomical representation. CONCLUSION: Enabling depth perception, capturing high-quality images, offering flexibility in viewpoints: photogrammetry provides researchers with unprecedented opportunities to explore and understand the intricate and magnificent structure of the brain. However, it is of paramount importance to develop and apply rigorous quality control systems to ensure data integrity and reliability of findings in neurological research. This study has demonstrated the superiority of Metascan in processing photogrammetric models for neuroanatomical studies.

Advancing Craniopharyngioma Management: A Systematic Review of Current Targeted Therapies and Future Perspectives.

Craniopharyngiomas present unique challenges in surgical management due to their proximity to critical neurovascular structures. This systematic review investigates genetic and immunological markers as potential targets for therapy in craniopharyngiomas, assessing their involvement in tumorigenesis, and their influence on prognosis and treatment strategies. The systematic review adhered to PRISMA guidelines, with a thorough literature search conducted on PubMed, Ovid MED-LINE, and Ovid EMBASE. Employing MeSH terms and Boolean operators, the search focused on craniopharyngiomas, targeted or molecular therapy, and clinical outcomes or adverse events. Inclusion criteria encompassed English language studies, clinical trials (randomized or non-randomized), and investigations into adamantinomatous or papillary craniopharyngiomas. Targeted therapies, either standalone or combined with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, were examined if they included clinical outcomes or adverse event analysis. Primary outcomes assessed disease response through follow-up MRI scans, categorizing responses as follows: complete response (CR), near-complete response (NCR), partial response, and stable or progressive disease based on lesion regression percentages. Secondary outcomes included treatment type and duration, as well as adverse events. A total of 891 papers were initially identified, of which 26 studies spanning from 2000 to 2023 were finally included in the review. Two tables highlighted adamantinomatous and papillary craniopharyngiomas, encompassing 7 and 19 studies, respectively. For adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas, Interferon-2α was the predominant targeted therapy (29%), whereas dabrafenib took precedence (70%) for papillary craniopharyngiomas. Treatment durations varied, ranging from 1.7 to 28 months. Positive responses, including CR or NCR, were observed in both types of craniopharyngiomas (29% CR for adamantinomatous; 32% CR for papillary). Adverse events, such as constitutional symptoms and skin changes, were reported, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring and personalized management to enhance treatment tolerability. Overall, the data highlighted a diverse landscape of targeted therapies with encouraging responses and manageable adverse events, underscoring the importance of ongoing research and individualized patient care in the exploration of treatment options for craniopharyngiomas. In the realm of targeted therapies for craniopharyngiomas, tocilizumab and dabrafenib emerged as prominent choices for adamantinomatous and papillary cases, respectively. While adverse events were common, their manageable nature underscored the importance of vigilant monitoring and personalized management. Acknowledging limitations, future research should prioritize larger, well-designed clinical trials and standardized treatment protocols to enhance our understanding of the impact of targeted therapies on craniopharyngioma patients.

A Systematic Review of the Metabolism of High-Grade Gliomas: Current Targeted Therapies and Future Perspectives.

High-grade glial tumors (HGGs) exhibit aggressive growth patterns and high recurrence rates. The prevailing treatment approach comprises radiation therapy (RT), chemotherapy (CMT), and surgical resection. Despite the progress made in traditional treatments, the outlook for patients with HGGs remains bleak. Tumor metabolism is emerging as a potential target for glioma therapies, a promising approach that harnesses the metabolism to target tumor cells. However, the efficacy of therapies targeting the metabolism of HGGs remains unclear, compelling a comprehensive review. This study aimed to assess the outcome of present trials on HGG therapies targeting metabolism. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Ovid EMBASE was conducted until November 2023. The search method used pertinent Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terminologies and keywords referring to "high-grade gliomas", "metabolism", "target therapies", "monoclonal antibodies", "overall survival", and "progression-free survival". The review analyzed studies that focused on therapies targeting the metabolism of HGGs in human subjects. These studies included both randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized controlled trials (NRCTs). Out of 284 articles identified, 23 trials met the inclusion criteria and were thoroughly analyzed. Phase II trials were the most numerous (62%). Targeted metabolic therapies were predominantly used for recurrent HGGs (67%). The most common targeted pathways were the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF, 43%), the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER, 22%), the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF, 17%), and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR, 17%). In 39% of studies, the subject treatment was combined with CMT (22%), RT (4%), or both (13%). The median OS widely ranged from 4 to 26.3 months, while the median PFS ranged from 1.5 to 13 months. This systematic literature review offers a thorough exploration of the present state of metabolic therapies for HGGs. The multitude of targeted pathways underscores the intricate nature of addressing the metabolic aspects of these tumors. Despite existing challenges, these findings provide valuable insights, guiding future research endeavors. The results serve as a foundation for refining treatment strategies and enhancing patient outcomes within the complex landscape of HGGs.

Aggressive PitNETs and Potential Target Therapies: A Systematic Review of Molecular and Genetic Pathways.

Recently, advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics have allowed a more thorough understanding of tumorigenesis in aggressive PitNETs (pituitary neuroendocrine tumors) through the identification of specific essential genes, crucial molecular pathways, regulators, and effects of the tumoral microenvironment. Target therapies have been developed to cure oncology patients refractory to traditional treatments, introducing the concept of precision medicine. Preliminary data on PitNETs are derived from preclinical studies conducted on cell cultures, animal models, and a few case reports or small case series. This study comprehensively reviews the principal pathways involved in aggressive PitNETs, describing the potential target therapies. A search was conducted on Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science for English papers published between 1 January 2004, and 15 June 2023. 254 were selected, and the topics related to aggressive PitNETs were recorded and discussed in detail: epigenetic aspects, membrane proteins and receptors, metalloprotease, molecular pathways, PPRK, and the immune microenvironment. A comprehensive comprehension of the molecular mechanisms linked to PitNETs' aggressiveness and invasiveness is crucial. Despite promising preliminary findings, additional research and clinical trials are necessary to confirm the indications and effectiveness of target therapies for PitNETs.

Lumbar interbody fusion using oblique (OLIF) and lateral (LLIF) approaches for degenerative spine disorders: a meta-analysis of the comparative studies.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. OBJECTIVE: Historically, posterior approaches to the lumbar spine have allowed surgeons to manage degenerative conditions affecting the lumbar spine. However, spinal muscles injury, post-surgical vertebral instability, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, and failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) represent severe complications that may occur after these surgeries. Lumbar interbody fusion using anterior (ALIF), oblique (OLIF), or lateral (LLIF) approaches may represent valuable surgical alternatives, in case fusion is indicated on single or multiple levels. METHODS: The present study is a systematic review, conducted according to the PRISMA statement, of comparative studies on OLIF, and LLIF for degenerative spine disorders, and a meta-analysis of their clinical-radiological outcomes and complications. RESULTS: After screening 1472 papers on PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, only 3 papers were included in the present study. 318 patients were included for data meta-analysis, 128 in OLIF group, and 190 in LLIF group. There were no significative differences in terms of surgical (intraoperative blood loss and surgical duration) and clinical (VAS-back, VAS-leg, and ODI scores) outcomes, or fusion rates at last follow-up (> 2 years). Significantly higher rates of abdominal complications, system failure, and vascular injuries were recorded in the OLIF group. Conversely, postoperative neurological symptoms and psoas weakness were significatively more common in LLIF group. CONCLUSIONS: The meta-analysis suggests that OLIF and LLIF are both effective for lumbar degenerative disorders, although each of them presents specific complications and this should represent a relevant element in the surgical planning.

Clipping versus coiling for treatment of middle cerebral artery aneurysms: a retrospective Italian multicenter experience.

Endovascular treatment has emerged as the predominant approach in intracranial aneurysms. However, surgical clipping is still considered the best treatment for middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms in referral centers. Here we compared short- and long-term clinical and neuroradiological outcomes in patients with MCA aneurysms undergoing clipping or coiling in 5 Italian referral centers for cerebrovascular surgery. We retrospectively reviewed 411 consecutive patients admitted between 2015 and 2019 for ruptured and unruptured MCA aneurysm. Univariate and multivariate analyses of the association between demographic, clinical, and radiological parameters and ruptured status, type of surgical treatment, and clinical outcome at discharge and follow-up were performed. Clipping was performed in 340 (83%) cases, coiling in 71 (17%). Clipping was preferred in unruptured aneurysms and in those showing collateral branches originating from neck/dome. Surgery achieved a higher rate of complete occlusion at discharge and follow-up. Clipping and coiling showed no difference in clinical outcome in both ruptured and unruptured cases. In ruptured aneurysms age, presenting clinical status, intracerebral hematoma at onset, and treatment-related complications were significantly associated with outcome at both short- and long-term follow-up. The presence of collaterals/perforators originating from dome/neck of the aneurysms also worsened the short-term clinical outcome. In unruptured cases, only treatment-related complications such as ischemia and hydrocephalus were associated with poor outcome. Clipping still seems superior to coiling in providing better short- and long-term occlusion rates in MCA aneurysms, and at the same time, it appears as safe as coiling in terms of clinical outcome.

Referencing for anterior atlantoaxial trans-articular osteosynthesis: a radiological study and proposal of a decisional algorithm.

PURPOSE: Anterior trans-articular C1-C2 screw placement can be considered as a surgical alternative in different conditions affecting the atlantoaxial region. While its rigidity is similar to posterior Magerl and Harms techniques, it also provides some surgical advantages. However, the literature lacks papers exhaustively describing indication criteria, surgical steps, and pitfalls. METHODS: This is a radiological study on 100 healthy subjects. Thin-layer CT scans of the craniovertebral junction were retrieved from the institutional database. The coronal inclination of the C1-C2 joint rim and the depth of the entry point of the screw with respect to the anterior profile of C2 were measured. The antero-posterior and the medio-lateral surgical corridors for the screw placement, and the wideness of the target area on the upper surface of C1 were also measured. RESULTS: The multivariate analysis showed that the coronal inclination of the C1-C2 articular joint rim strongly influences the surface extension of the C1 target area; the depth of the entry point and the C1-C2 articular rim inclination seem to be independent factors in influencing both the medio-lateral and the antero-posterior surgical corridors wideness. A decisional algorithm on whether to perform an anterior or posterior approach to the atlantoaxial region was also proposed. CONCLUSIONS: We can conclude that, as much as the C1-C2 articular rim is tending to the horizontal line, and as deeper is the entry point of the screw on the anterior profile of C2, as easier the anterior C1-C2 trans-articular screw placement will result.

Acute subdural hematoma in the elderly: outcome analysis in a retrospective multicentric series of 213 patients.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze the risk factors associated with the outcome of acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) in elderly patients treated either surgically or nonsurgically. METHODS: The authors performed a retrospective multicentric analysis of clinical and radiological data on patients aged ≥ 70 years who had been consecutively admitted to the neurosurgical department of 5 Italian hospitals for the management of posttraumatic ASDH in a 3-year period. Outcome was measured according to the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at discharge and at 6 months' follow-up. A GOS score of 1-3 was defined as a poor outcome and a GOS score of 4-5 as a good outcome. Univariate and multivariate statistics were used to determine outcome predictors in the entire study population and in the surgical group. RESULTS: Overall, 213 patients were admitted during the 3-year study period. Outcome was poor in 135 (63%) patients, as 65 (31%) died during their admission, 33 (15%) were in a vegetative state, and 37 (17%) had severe disability at discharge. Surgical patients had worse clinical and radiological findings on arrival or during their admission than the patients undergoing conservative treatment. Surgery was performed in 147 (69%) patients, and 114 (78%) of them had a poor outcome. In stratifying patients by their Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, the authors found that surgery reduced mortality but not the frequency of a poor outcome in the patients with a moderate to severe GCS score. The GCS score and midline shift were the most significant predictors of outcome. Antiplatelet drugs were associated with better outcomes; however, patients taking such medications had a better GCS score and better radiological findings, which could have influenced the former finding. Patients with fixed pupils never had a good outcome. Age and Charlson Comorbidity Index were not associated with outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Traumatic ASDH in the elderly is a severe condition, with the GCS score and midline shift the stronger outcome predictors, while age per se and comorbidities were not associated with outcome. Antithrombotic drugs do not seem to negatively influence pretreatment status or posttreatment outcome. Surgery was performed in patients with a worse clinical and radiological status, reducing the rate of death but not the frequency of a poor outcome.

Comparison of pure lateral and oblique lateral inter-body fusion for treatment of lumbar degenerative disk disease: a multicentric cohort study.

PURPOSE: The most effective interbody fusion technique for degenerative disk disease (DDD) is still controversial. The purpose of our study is to compare pure lateral (LLIF) and oblique lateral (OLIF) approaches for the treatment of lumbar DDD from L1-L2 to L4-L5, in terms of clinical and radiological outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 45 patients underwent lumbar interbody fusion for pure lumbar DDD from  L1-L2 to L4-L5 through LLIF (n = 31, mean age 62.1 years, range 45-78 years) or OLIF (n = 14, mean age 57.4 years, range 47-77 years). Clinical evaluations were performed with ODI and SF-36 tests. Radiological assessment was based on the modification of coronal segmental Cobb angles and segmental lumbar lordosis (L1-S1). RESULTS: On ODI and SF-36, all patients presented good results at follow-up, with 26% the difference between the LIF and OLIF groups on ODI scale in the post-operative period, and 3.9 and 8.8 points difference on physical and mental SF-36 in favor of OLIF. Radiological parameters improved significantly in both groups. The mean correction was 6.25° for cCobb (11.3° in LIF and 1.9° in OLIF), 2.5° for sLL (2° in LLIF and 4° in OLIF). CONCLUSIONS: LLIF and OLIF represent safe and effective MIS procedures for the treatment of lumbar DDD. LLIF had some risks of motor deficit and monitoring is mandatory, though it addressed more the coronal deformities. OLIF did not imply risks for motor deficits, but attention should be paid to vascular anatomy. It was more effective in kyphotic segmental deformities. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary material.

Navigating the Intersection Between the Orbit and the Skull Base: The "Mirror" McCarty Keyhole During Transorbital Approach: An Anatomic Study With Surgical Implications.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: McCarty keyhole (MCK) is the most important entry point during orbitocranial and cranio-orbital approaches; nevertheless, its anatomic coordinates have never been detailedly described from transorbital perspective. To provide the spatial coordinates for intraorbital projection of the "mirror" MCK by using the well-established main anatomic-surgical bony landmarks met along transorbital corridor. METHODS: MCK was identified in 15 adult dry skulls (30 sides) on exocranial surface of pterional region based on the well-defined external bony landmarks: on the frontosphenoid suture, 5 to 6 mm behind the joining point (JP) of frontozygomatic suture (FZS), frontosphenoid suture (FSS), and sphenozygomatic suture (SZS). A 1-mm burr hole was performed and progressively enlarged to identify the intracranial and intraorbital compartments. Exit site of the intraorbital part of burr hole was referenced to the FZS on the orbital rim, the superior orbital fissure, and the inferior orbital fissure and to the JP of FZS, FSS, and SZS. To electronically validate the results, 3-dimensional photorealistic and interactive models were reconstructed with photogrammetry. Finally, for a further validation, McCarty mirror keyhole was also exposed, based on results achieved, through endoscopic transorbital approach in 10 head specimens (20 sides). RESULTS: Intraorbital projection of MCK was identified on the FSS on intraorbital surface, 1.5 ± 0.5 mm posterior to JP, 11.5 ± 1.1 mm posterior to the FZS on orbital rim following the suture, 13.0 ± 1.2 mm from most anterior end of superior orbital fissure, 15.5 ± 1.4 mm from the most anterior end of the inferior orbital fissure in vertical line, on measurements under direct macroscopic visualization (mean ± SD). These values were electronically confirmed on the photogrammetric models with mean difference within 1 mm. CONCLUSION: To be aware of exact position of intraorbital projection of MCK during an early stage of transorbital approaches provides several surgical, clinical, and aesthetic advantages.

3-Dimensional Printed Model of the Temporal Bone for Neurosurgical Training.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The development of neurosurgical skills stands out as a paramount objective for neurosurgery residents during their formative years. Mastery of intricate and complex procedures is a time-intensive process marked by a gradually ascending learning curve. Consequently, the study and simulation on surgical models assume significant importance. One of the most intricate neuroanatomical regions includes the petrous and mastoid portions of the temporal bone. These regions host critical, highly functional, and vital neurovascular structures, including the facial nerve, cochlea, semicircular canals, internal carotid artery, and middle ear. This fully open-source 3-dimensional (3D) model of the temporal bone, created for educational purposes, should be easily and economically reproducible using a 3D printer, offering all residents the opportunity to understand the spatial location, three-dimensional anatomical structures, and fundamental intricacies of mastoidectomy. METHODS: A 3D model of the temporal bone was fabricated using a computed tomography (CT) scan derived from an actual human body. The CT scan of the model was meticulously juxtaposed with the reference sample CT scan. Neurosurgical residents were recruited as participants for this study. Each participant was tasked with executing a mastoidectomy on 2 separate occasions, with a 2-week interval between attempts. Throughout these sessions, various parameters, including the time taken for task completion, the volume of bone removal, and any potential complications, were systematically registered. RESULTS: The mean volume of bone removed increased by 34.5%, and the mean task time and the mean number of complications decreased by 10.3% and 25%, respectively, during the training. CONCLUSION: Engaging in training with cost-effective anatomical models constitutes a valuable tool for refining technical skills during residency. We posit that this type of model training should be incorporated as part of the trainee's curriculum during the residency program because of the myriad advantages evidenced by the findings of this study.

The Course of the Trochlear Nerve Presented via a 3-Dimensional Photorealistic Anatomic Model.

OBJECTIVES: Several factors contribute to the anatomical complexity of the trochlear nerve, including small diameter, complex and longest intracranial course, deep location, and numerous neurovascular relationships. A 3-dimensional (3D) photorealistic model of the cranial nerves provides a detailed and immersive representation of the anatomy, enabling one to improve surgical planning, advanced surgical research, and training. The purpose of this work is to present a 3D photogrammetric study for a more intuitive and interactive way to explore and describe the entire course of trochlear nerve. METHODS: Two injected-fixed head human specimens (4 sides) were examined. The dissection protocol was divided into the following steps: 1) brain hemisphere exposure; 2) hemispherectomy dissecting all cranial nerves and partial removal of the free edge of the tentorium; 3) middle fossa and lateral wall of cavernous sinus exposure; and 4) orbital exposure. A detailed 3D photogrammetric model was generated for each dissection step. RESULTS: Four main volumetric models were generated during a step-by-step layered dissection of the entire nerve pathway highlighting its different segments. Finally, a full and integrated model of the entire course of the nerve was created. The models are available for visualization on monoscopic display, virtual, and augmented reality environment. CONCLUSIONS: The present photogrammetric model provides a more comprehensive understanding of the nerve's anatomy in its different segments, allows for customizable views thus simulating different perspectives, and can be a valuable alternative to traditional dissections. It is an advanced tool for surgical planning and surgical simulation as well as virtual reality representation of the anatomy.

Assessing the Feasibility of Selective Piezoelectric Osteotomy in Transorbital Approach to the Middle Cranial Fossa: Anatomical and Quantitative Study and Surgical Implications.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the feasibility and discuss advantages and disadvantages of a piezoelectric orbitotomy during superior eyelid endoscopic transorbital approach (SETOA). An illustrative case demonstrating the application of this novel technique is also presented. METHODS: Exoscopic/endoscopic SETOA to middle cranial fossa was performed on 5 adult specimens. The surgical corridor was created via piezoelectric orbitotomy by performing 3 selective and safe micrometric bone cuts providing a 1-piece trapezoid bone flap, which was repositioned and secured at the end of the procedure. A three-dimensional scan of the bone flap allowed us to reconstruct a three-dimensional model and calculate its volume. RESULTS: Anatomical-morphometric quantitative analysis showed a mean bone volume gain of 1574.26 mm3 by using piezoelectric orbitotomy. Piezoelectric orbitotomy also yielded concrete surgical advantages and theoretical benefits in terms of functional and esthetic outcomes. All osteotomies were micrometric clear-cut and precise, resulting in a very thin bone gap; complete sparing of soft tissues and neurovascular structures in and around the orbit was observed. Lateral orbital wall reconstruction by replacing the bone flap was performed to mitigate the risk of enophthalmos, proptosis, cerebrospinal leakage, pseudomeningocele, and pulsatile headache, which represent significant challenges. CONCLUSIONS: Piezoelectric orbitotomy may offer a viable, selective, effective, safe alternative to high-speed drilling during SETOA, especially for patients with intra-axial pathologies, in which a watertight closure is mandatory. This procedure could prevent or decrease the risk of some of the main postoperative complications associated with standard SETOA, potentially resulting in better functional and esthetic outcomes.

Interscapular Pain after Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion: Does Zygapophyseal Joints over Distraction Play a Role?

Introduction: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for cervical disc herniation (CDH) is commonly performed. Specific post-operative complications include dysphagia, dysphonia, cervicalgia, adjacent segment disorder, cage subsidence, and infections. However, interscapular pain is commonly reported by these patients after surgery, although its mechanisms have not been clarified yet. Methods: This retrospective series of 31 patients undergoing ACDF for CDH at a single Academic Hospital. Baseline and post-operative clinical, radiological, and surgical data were analyzed. The linear regression analysis was conducted to identify any factor independently influencing the incidence rate of post-operative interscapular pain. Results: The mean age was 57.6 ± 10.8 years, and the M:F ratio was 2.1. Pre-operative mean VAS-arm was 7.15 ± 0.81 among the 20 patients reporting brachialgia, and mean VAS-neck was 4.36 ± 1.43 among those 9 patients reporting cervicalgia. At 1 month, interscapular pain was still reported by 8 out of the 17 patients who experienced it post-operatively, and it was recovered in all patients after 2 months. The regression analysis showed that interscapular pain was not directly associated with age (p = 0.74), gender (p = 0.46), smoking status (p = 0.44), diabetes (0.42), pre-operative brachialgia (p = 0.21) or cervicalgia (p = 0.48), symptoms duration (p = 0.13), baseline VAS-arm (p = 0.11), VAS-neck (p = 0.93), or mJOA (p = 0.63) scores, or disc height modification (p = 0.90). However, the post-operative increase in the mean zygapophyseal joint rim distance was identified as an independent factor in determining interscapular pain (p = 0.02). Conclusions: Our study revealed that the onset of interscapular pain following ACDF may be determined by over distraction of the zygapophyseal joint rim. Then, proper sizing of prosthetic implants could reduce this painful complication.

3D Printing for Customized Bone Reconstruction in Spheno-Orbital Meningiomas: A Systematic Literature Review and Institutional Experience.

Background: The treatment of spheno-orbital meningiomas (SOMs) requires extensive bone resections, creating significant defects in a complex geometrical space. Bone reconstruction represents a fundamental step that optimizes long-term aesthetic and functional outcomes. In recent years, 3D printing technology has also been exploited for complex skull base reconstructions, but reports remain scarce. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed four consecutive patients who underwent SOM resection and one-step 3D PEEK customized reconstruction from 2019 to 2023. A systematic review of 3D printing customized implants for SOM was then performed. Results: All patients underwent a frontotemporal craniotomy, removal of SOM, and reconstruction of the superolateral orbital wall and pterional region. The aesthetic outcome was extremely satisfactory in all cases. No orbital implant malposition or infectious complications were documented. Eleven papers were included in the literature review, describing 27 patients. Most (23) patients underwent a single-stage reconstruction; in three cases, the implant was positioned to correct postoperative delayed enophthalmos. Porous titanium was the most used material (16 patients), while PEEK was used in three cases. Prosthesis malposition was described in two (7.4%) patients. Conclusions: Single-step reconstruction with a personalized 3D PEEK prosthesis represents a valid reconstruction technique for the treatment of SOMs with good aesthetic outcomes.

Topographic Patterns of Intracranial Meningioma Recurrences-Systematic Review with Clinical Implication.

BACKGROUND: While several risk factors for recurrences have been defined, the topographic pattern of meningioma recurrences after surgical resection has been scarcely investigated. The possibility of theoretically predicting the site of recurrence not only allows us to better understand the pathogenetic bases of the disease and consequently to drive the development of new targeted therapies, but also guides the decision-making process for treatment strategies and tailored follow-ups to decrease/prevent recurrence. METHODS: The authors performed a comprehensive and detailed systematic literature review of the EMBASE and MEDLINE electronic online databases regarding the topographic pattern of recurrence after surgical treatment for intracranial meningiomas. Demographics and histopathological, neuroradiological and treatment data, pertinent to the topography of recurrences, as well as time to recurrences, were extracted and analyzed. RESULTS: Four studies, including 164 cases of recurrences according to the inclusion criteria, were identified. All studies consider the possibility of recurrence at the previous dural site; three out of four, which are the most recent, consider 1 cm outside the previous dural margin to be the main limit to distinguish recurrences closer to the previous site from those more distant. Recurrences mainly occur within or close to the surgical bed; higher values of proliferation index are associated with recurrences close to the original site rather than within it. CONCLUSIONS: Further studies, including genomic characterization of different patterns of recurrence, will better clarify the main features affecting the topography of recurrences. A comparison between topographic classifications of intracranial meningioma recurrences after surgery and after radiation treatment could provide further interesting information.

Parasagittal Meningiomas: The Impact of Sinus Opening and Grade of Resection on Clinical Outcome and Recurrence in a Consecutive Series of Patients.

BACKGROUND: Surgical management of parasagittal meningiomas (PMs) remains controversial in the literature. The need to pursue a resection as radical as possible and the high risk of venous injuries contribute to making the sinus opening a widely argued choice. This study aimed to analyze factors affecting the risk of recurrence and to assess clinical outcomes of patients who underwent surgical resection of PMs with conservative or aggressive management of the intrasinusal portion. METHODS: A single-institution retrospective review of all patients with PM surgically treated between January 2013 and March 2021 was conducted. RESULTS: Among 56 patients, the sinus was opened in 32 patients (57%), and a conservative approach was used in 24 patients (43%). The sinus opening was found to be a predictive factor of radical resection (Simpson grade [SG] I-II) (P = 0.007). SG was the only predictive factor of recurrence (P < 0.001). The radical resection group (SG I-II) showed recurrence-free survival at 72 months of about 90% versus 30% in the non-radical resection group (SG III-IV) (log-rank test = 14.21, P < 0.001). Aggressive management of the sinus and radical resection were not found to be related to permanent deficit (P = 0.214 and P = 0.254) or worsening of Karnofsky performance scale score (P = 0.822 and P = 0.933). CONCLUSIONS: Removal of the intrasinusal portion of the tumor using standard procedures is not associated with a higher risk of permanent deficit or worsening of Karnofsky performance scale and reduces the risk of recurrence.